MARK POWELL returns from a three-match suspension to boost second-placed Rhyl's bid for a key win over old title adversaries The New Saints in tomorrow's live televised clash of the titans at Treflan.

Powell missed Rhyl's home draw against lowly Newi Cefn Druids last week, but is added to the squad for an encounter which Rhyl boss John Hulse says everyone at the club is looking forward to.

"We've had some great battles in the past and the fact that we all know and respect each other so much – management, players and supporters – always makes this a special occasion," he said.

"They are one point behind us in third place so the ingredients are there for another tremendous game."

The Rhyl chief knows better than to allow recent blips in the reigning champion's results to deceive him.

"They are as good as ever, a full-time professional side who have had every day of the week to prepare for this game where we have had two hours so we are under no illusions about what we are up against," added Hulse.

Suspended James Brewerton remains out of contention while Connal Murtagh is still feeling a knock as Rhyl aim to avenge last season's 1-0 defeat at Treflan and seize the chance to go top of the table.

The New Saints will be looking to keep their title ambitions on the boil by serving a reminder of their capabilties, writes John Bridgwater.

The defending champions go into the encounter at Treflan trailing unbeaten leaders Llanelli – who also have a game in hand – by two points.

And manager Ken McKenna accepts the importance of the tussle as his charges bid to keep a grip of the crown they have won for the past two seasons.

"In terms of finishing runners-up, it would not be a disaster if we didn't win, but in terms of winning the league it would make it really tough for us as Llanelli could go nine points clear with their game in hand," he said.

"But these are the sort of games you really look forward to. Everything's gone well in training this week, the lads have looked sharp and they're looking forward to the challenge.

"We're fully aware of Rhyl's qualities, they are a fantastic side, their manager John (Hulse) has them well-motivated and there won't be much in it."

The Saints go into the game on the back of a slight wobble that has already seen them suffer a couple of league defeats followed by their surprise 2-1 exit in the Loosemores Challenge Cup at home to Porthmadog in their last outing.

"We're a little bit short of where we want to be, and we've lost a few games this season which we would have been expected to win," added McKenna.

"But all teams go through dips in form, so there's no panic. We've spoken about it with the lads and they're looking to put it right."

Midfielder Scott Ruscoe is out as he serves the last of his three-match ban, but the Saints have been boosted with the return of left back Chris King (ankle) and midfielder Jamie Wood (knee) to training as they continue their comebacks following lengthy injuries.

Aberystwyth Town will be in optimistic mood as they bid to keep the pressure on the leading pack in today's trip to Caersws.

The seasiders have run into some good form, with two league victories being followed by the excellent midweek Loosemores Cup win at previously unbeaten Llanelli.

Manager Brian Coyne admits his side can make the journey in good heart for a game which will also serve as a dress rehearshal of the league cup semi-final between the sides later this month.

"I don't think anybody gave us a chance at Llanelli but we played very well and were very positive," he said.

"We arrived late but were 2-0 up at half time which didn't flatter us. They got a goal back early in the second half but we stuck to our guns."